Explorers discover deepwater gas seeps off US Atlantic coast: Advanced sonar technology key to discovery and mapping
Thursday, December 20, 2012 - 09:00
in Earth & Climate
NOAA ocean explorers used an advanced multibeam sonar mapping system on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer last month to discover and map the first deepwater gas seeps found off the U.S. Atlantic Coast north of Cape Hatteras. The seeps were found at water depths greater than 1,000 meters (3,300 feet). Based on preliminary information, scientists believe the seeps are likely emitting methane gas.